The name pesto comes from the same Latin root of “pestle,” which is fitting as the sauce, in its simplest form, is made by crushing a few key ingredients together.
Basil has several health benefits. It interferes with the growth of bacteria, it may also help with inflammation and is good for heart health.

You can either mix the ingredients in a food processor or simply crush them together with a mortar and pestle. To keep sauce fresh for as long as possible, to add a layer of olive oil on top of the sauce once it has been placed in a jar. Pesto can keep in the refrigerator this way for over a week and can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.